EUROPEAN river cruises are top of the 2016 luxury travel wish list outside of North America, online travel agent Iglu Cruise has confirmed.

Although it launched into the river cruise market less than 12 months ago, the company has seen a staggering increase in river cruise enquiries and bookings.

Managing director Simone Clark said: “A river cruise is the ideal way to discover a wide variety of destinations in one trip, whether its exploring the hidden delights of Southeast Asia, sailing along the Mekong, or unearthing the wonders of Europe along the Rhine.

“Their compact size means they can get right in to the heart of cities and they often include visits to more than one small port a day, so are a good choice for those looking to visit a number of different places.

A river cruise is the ideal way to discover a wide variety of destinations in one trip

Simon Clark, managing director

She continued: “River cruises have a very intimate and casual feel, some with just 200 onboard, and are an enjoyable way to experience those far flung or closer-to-home destinations.”

Now Iglu Cruise has come up with its top five best-value river cruise deals for 2016 and beyond:

Romantic Rhineland: Get up close and personal with the best that Germany has to offer. Enjoy an onboard overnight stay in both Cologne and Koblenz, explore Zell and its vineyards and even enjoy an optional excursion to Drachenfels Castle via rack-rail train with a Saga River Cruise departing from Cologne.

Yangtze River: The rich culture, exotic scenery and excellent food has made China one of the most popular destinations for river cruises. Discover the imperial jewels of China, including a three-night hotel Stay in Beijing, and two-night hotel stays in Shanghai and Xi'an with Viking River Cruises. Tours to the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City & Terracotta Warriors are also included, as well as a chance to see Pandas at Chongquing Zoo.

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Explore the delights of Spain and Portugal along the river Douro

River Douro: Grab some sun and explore the delights of Spain and Portugal along the river Douro. Highlights include visits to Porto, Pinhao, Salamanca and Regua, with excursions included at every port. Enjoy the culinary delights of this destination with a visit to the winemaking Douro Museum in Regua, a day trip to Salamanca (including a BBQ) and a port tasting in Pinhao with an Emerald Waterways cruise.

First-time river cruise: Try a four-night taster cruise with Riviera Travel that takes in the Dutch Waterways. Highlights include a visit to world famous Keukenhof Gardens, a visit to Anne Frank's House and a trip to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Single cabins are available.

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Highlights of the First-time river cruise include a visit to world famous Keukenhof Gardens

River Seine: Discover Paris and the Normandy capital of Rouen on a scenic cruise down the River Seine with Crystal River Cruises, which launches in 2018. This brand new luxurious brand is offering six-star cuisine and unlimited complimentary beverages including champagne, with the chance to discover the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and the other sights and delights of Paris before exploring the River Seine.